It's Friday, I'm In Love: Check out the new merchandise in stock!

`As I mentioned previously, I will be having a booth at the Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market again this Saturday (and hopefully thereafter- excluding rain). It seems to be a great venue to market some of my merchandise and get the word out about the store. I thought Saturdays would be a busy day at the store with the people who work during the week, but it seems to be my slowest day!

So, get outdoors. This is San Diego right? There is a ton of stuff there for kids to do and it is one of the most popular and largest Farmer's Market around. Visit their website for more info at http://www.srfm.org/SRFM/Home.html

This week they are having a Treasure Hunt for the kids with prizes, in addition to the other wonderful things there- including a playground :)

I bring mostly new and seasonal items when I go, but if you contact me before 4:00 Fridays I can also pack up any specific requests you might have or meet you afterwards at the Store (2 or 2:30 usually). The Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market is located at EBS Elementary School (the new location is the old Marshall Middle School) and the address is 11778 Cypress Canyon Rd. (92131). Directions available through their web page also- click on find us! And then come and find me there from 9-1.

I am still doing inventory at the store- lots of new items to brag about and as soon as I can I will post more pictures and updates. Regular story time needs to be decided this weekend so I can get it posted in the major magazines and web sites - but it will be at least twice this February.

Lots of Valentines outfits, gifts, and accessories also available right now. I have my two little ones at the store this morning until around lunch so come by and play if you want :) I won't be doing a lot of "work" until after lunch.


Happy Friday!

Time Flies!

Wow things have been exceptionally crazy- even for me. More so than usual, if that is possible. I have so many things going on around me I felt like none of it was getting "together".

Is that a mom thing or is it just me?

It has been like Christmas at the store. Lots of new inventory and shipments and moving around displays. Although like Christmas-time, that comes with big bills and OMG I hope I am doing all this right!

I am pretty confident that I am making good decisions for myself and my customers and that we can make it through this economy. This is it everyone. If things don't start picking up- I'm going to have to go online ONLY and that is the end of the dream :(

So, let me know what YOU the customer wants.

Yes, I am a resale shop but that part took a couple years to get together and it stays very steady. I rarely need to buy stuff for that part of the store because I have a pretty good supply. I still have un-inventoried items. It never hurts to ask because I am looking for items here and there all the time but like all shops around here, once you get a basic inventory - you just can't buy a lot of items at once because you just don't have the room. I'm looking for that fabulous can't find outfit or fantastic basic that I just can't seem to keep in stock. Or great recyclable items like slings and stuff like that.

And remember, on top of the resale department I sell a good variety of new items (clothing included) so there is always choices.

My current vendors I work with are:
See Kai Run
Baby Legs - Just in! http://www.babylegs.net/newWeb/home.php?main=ways&sub=ways
Melissa & Doug
Little Knits
Inky Binky Baby
Hippie Clippies
Diapees and Wipees

I also carry Laura Roppe's CD's (please please please go to her website linked below or google her or check out uTube - I'll put a video up one of these days) and fall in love and come in and buy a CD. I can't say enough about her and even though I only met her a couple times, her music speaks to you like a friend and you'll feel like you know her. Become a fan and check out her blogs and her story and that's a whole new world. I have had her CD's in the store before I realized what an impact her story would have on me so go on, when you are done reading here and listen online to "Float Away" or "Little Daughter"

and possibly coming soon by popular request- FuzziBunz (more about that- including interest, classes, casing, etc.) I'm thinking I need to invest in a few pairs myself. I never thought I would say that, but this economy and planet are in need of change, saving $, and supporting other small businesses (by moms of course!)

and then I have lots of new clothes that are mostly on consignment from other out-of-business boutiques/stores/online sellers/etc. Or great finds I have found that didn't have minimum orders since I'm on such a tight budget.

I'm on my laptop and it is as usual super late so I'm going to skip the pictures and long stories and finish up.

Okay, so new shipments in so I'll be around getting everything displayed nicely AND preparing for the Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market. I'll post all the info and address again for convenience. I'll be there every Saturday for awhile (unless it rains, then I'll be at the store) and then possibly at the store for an hour afterwards. I usually just bring my new items or seasonal resale items but will bring any item there if requested so feel free to shoot me an email or call (before 4 on Friday!) and I'll pack up specific items for special pick-up. Plus, then you get a fun day out supporting the community, local businesses, and lots of stuff for kids to do!

On the BabyLegs- remember they (1) aren't just for babies! (2) aren't just for girls (3) did you notice that the new on the new Olivia show she has a different pair on in each scene? So cute, and my neice knows the little voice behind the most popular pig! and (4) are totally comfortable, stylish, and afford-ably priced. They are one of the most popular shower gifts right now! I personally love them with a set of burp cloths and something fun like Diapees and Wipees. I can also do special orders and team orders for sports!

Gifts- I will package and ship your gifts. If you want something I don't have give me your budget and I will make a perfect gift prepared for you to give with just a couple basic questions and deposit.

Story time- thank you again to The Big Chill in Scripps Ranch for the donations! I can't wait to catch up on everything and plan a regular story time once or twice a month. I'd like to post on the major web sites and Family Magazine (look for our ad this month!) to catch a fun turn-out and try out different themes and music.

Thanks again for your support. I know the past few weeks have been a little off for not just myself physically, emotionally and at work - but also it seems everyone has a story themselves. So hang in there. We can make it through the tough times. Hey, I pushed out three babies. I can keep my chin up :)

Silly ME

I totally fell asleep while posting that last blog. lol

Woke up around 2 AM, head on shoulder. Working hard or hardly working?

:)

FREE Frozen Yougurt and Story Time

I'm practically falling asleep at the computer, but quick update-

Yes, story time will take place tomorrow (Thursday January 22nd from 12:30-1:30). It's informal and last minute notice so I don't expect a fantastic turnout this time, but future ones will be well planned out, announced and hopeful.

THERE WILL BE FREE FROZEN YOGURT courtesy of THE BIG CHILL Scripps Ranch.

Call or email if you have any questions. I need some sleep.

Another Day, Another Story

I'm keeping busy organizing, tagging and marking new inventory and arrivals, as well as running around for supplies and research. However, I'm mostly in the store (or minutes away) so please stop by or call if you are in a hurry so you can confirm what you need I have and can make sure I don't miss you! I am available and around during all open hours :)

And, come rain or shine (looks like it is leaning towards the rain...) I'm trying my second story time. Nothing special planned yet; although it isn't beyond me to get together last minute surprises! This Thursday, January 21st from 12:30-1:30. Drop in any time. Casual and informal. I'm going to have some music, free play, coupons, and Classic Children's stories geared towards younger children (depending on RSVP's!). Call for reservations since playroom space is somewhat limited. However, they are requested not required as I totally understand planning things with three kids of my own. If your little one is into dress up- go for it. Feeling like a Pajama Day because of the weather? Show off your favorite cozies. No theme this week but I'm hoping to work in at least a little edible treat or something special like that.

Uh oh, I hear a cry from my teething little one. I'm off!

Where have you been?

Last week was a SUPER slow and quiet week at the store. Is it the horrible economy? Was it the beautiful weather (sneezing crazy Santa Ana, but hey, it's San Diego)? Or am I just not marketing myself right?

I think it's time to
A. Go online and let you shop, shop, shop
B. Bribe you in with Princess Parties, Story time and Free Frozen Yogurt
C. I have Coffee!!!!
D. New products on their way
E. Back to the Farmer's Market on Saturday Mornings
F. Shipping!
G. More mailings, coupons and fliers. More more more.
H. Tell a friend discounts
I. Great projects like the blood drive, and other things to bring you out for good purposes and shopping
J. Remind everyone that I'm half re-sale and the other half is new high-end trendy excellent quality but affordable items! So think birthday parties, showers, gifts, get your basic clothing needs, picture attire, some fun accessories. One stop shopping. I'm working on getting some wrapping stuff in the store. Want a basket or gift package made up? Give me your budget and I'll give you something the rest of the guests will be green-eyed over and the guest-of-honor smiling!
K. Send your ideas and I'll be back for more :)

PS I'll be open today at 11 and Friday at 11. Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday at 10:30. Close at 4. That's this weeks schedule!

Military Discount Today & Tomorrow!

Today, Friday and tomorrow will be Military Discount Days. Bring your ID, bring a friend even. Applies to new or resale items.

Still working on getting out and inventoried all my merchandise, but still plenty of room for your stroller, to play, or nurse your baby and shop.

Hopefully coming in soon by popular demand... Baby Legs! Check out their fabulous web site for the perfect new must-have for your baby, older daughter or self! Great gift idea and perfect for the layering weather around here. www.babylegs.com

If I haven't mentioned before, I now am offering national shipping. Just pay by credit card over the phone. Or buy a gift and I'll ship it out for you. (A small fee may apply depending on the order).

See you soon! And check back for more regular updates as things are starting to return to normal (if anything about running a store with three young kids can be normal!).

Wednesday January 14th

Hi-

Behind on postings and lots to talk about, but short on time. So real quick I just want to mention that due to having two of the kids today I will probably be in and out of the store. But I will forward my phones to my cell and will stay nearby. So, give me a call if you want before you come by today to make sure I'm there. I should be there for sure 11:30-1:30 but the rest might be come and go- depending on how the kids are doing. Thanks for understanding, as another mom would be :)

Hours

Today I'll be open 11-3 unless you call to make other arrangements due to daycare issues. Thanks! Regular hours tomorrow...

Happy New Year!

Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season and is looking forward to a fabulous 2009! I know I'm ready for good things to come.

It's late, so I'll just give a quick update since I have not posted in awhile. The store is open again, regular hours. Except I'm putting 10:30 to 4 for now because I have a ton of stuff to do around the store, my oldest daughter is out of school a few more weeks, and other random things. So I may be in at 10, but assume 10:30. You can always call first if you want to get there early and I can see if I can make arrangements.

Well the new year brought us some new racks to display the merchandise, so excuse the dust as I rearrange the store. I probably won't be taking any buying appointments until everything gets settled and my tags come in (running low and lots to inventory still!). I like to know what I need before making any purchases, but don't hesitate to call. One never knows ;)

I have also spent the last couple weeks mostly away from the store, spending lots of time with the kiddos and family/friends. We had lots of fun destructing the house and breaking out new projects or finishing chores. This was only spoiled by the horrible virus we all caught, but luckily not only was I away from the store (to not contaminate anyone else) but I am now officially finished with my antibiotics and hoping for my energy level to restore to normal. Of course, I never actually stop working for long. I have a huge list from brainstorming that I have been doing and lots of ideas to get started working on.

My New Year's Resolution is to learn to sew and use a sewing/embroidery machine so I can start on the dream of making some of my own items! Sewing is one craft I never tackled with a machine and certainly never mastered it. I'm keeping my eye out for a gently used inexpensive one to start with. Hopefully something will catch my eye!

I would also like to finalize an official story time. I am working on details of day/time/how often. And maybe even having a different theme each time or treat. Hopefully by the end of the week, I'll make a decision and can get it posted in San Diego Family Magazine for a great turnout! I am also trying to figure out if I should continue at the Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market and if so, how often to be consistent without compromising too much time away from the store.

And since I never had an official "Grand Opening Party" I would like to do something special in the next month or two. I have had several requests from people interested in teaching a short class about something (such as cloth diapers or nutrition) and also other moms that sell stuff (something fun, practical or different) to host a "party" at the store. It could even be during off hours. The playroom would allow the kids to play eliminating the need for a sitter. And of course, I always welcome small playgroups or meetings by appointment and of course, this includes a group discount. So if your breastfeeding group is branching out or you and some friends want an excuse to shop together without 'mall-meltdown' let me know and we can figure something fun out. Also, I would like to do some good things such as more donations and perhaps a blood drive...

Good Night!